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The 10 Best Day Trips from Manchester in Winter
- Liverpool
- Shop ‘til you drop at some of the best UK malls
- Visit the Beatles Story
- Explore the Liverpool Waterfront
- Delamere Forest Manchester
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Segway Tours
- Manchester to Chester
- Visiting the Chester Zoo
- Walk the City Walls
- Visit the Chester Racecourse
- Lake District Manchester
- Visiting the Trafford Centre
- Walking around the Sale Water Park
- Boat Tour in the Bridgewater Canal
- Hebden Bridge at Yorkshire
- Taking the Road to Rochdale Canal
- Hebden Bridge Market
- Explore independent shops and cafes
- Manchester to Castleton
- Visit Christmas markets
- Participate in Winter Sports
- View the stunning winter scenery
- Buxton
- Visit the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery
- Dine at the local restaurants and cafes
- Visit the Poole's Cavern & Buxton Country Park
My favourite time to go on a day trip in Manchester is during winter! Seeing the snowflakes fall and the white blankets of ice scattered on the pavements bring back so many good memories when I was a kid spending Christmas with the family.
So, given the multitude of options, where should you go for a winter day trip?
Among the best places to visit for day trips from Manchester in winter are Liverpool, Chester, and the Lake Districts— and among a few other locations neighbouring the great city.
Grab your ski outfits and winter clothing, as we dive deeper into the places and activities you can visit and go to in Manchester during the winter holidays!
Liverpool
Liverpool (Row 73, Manchester vs Liverpool, Which is the biggest city Liverpool or Manchester?) is one of England’s many great cities that has both the historical and cultural significance to its amazing people.
It has a festive atmosphere where the vibrance of the city lights glow even in the whiteness of the blocky ice.
Take a look at some of the best activities you can do in Liverpool!
Shop ‘til you drop at some of the best UK malls
Liverpool has some of the best malls in the UK. During the holidays, they’re especially packed with a lot of holiday givers who’re preparing for their festivities at home.
Christmas shopping is an amazing activity that you can do when visiting Liverpool, but you can safely say that to other places near Manchester too.
Yet, there’s something about Liverpool’s grand malls and shopping centres that favour any other locations in the city!
Here are some of my favourite malls in Liverpool:
• Liverpool ONE
Address: 5 Wall St, Liverpool L1 8JQ, United Kingdom
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM to 8 PM; Saturday 9 AM to 7 PM; Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM
• St. John’s Shopping Centre
Address: 0 St George’s Pl, Liverpool L1 1LY, United Kingdom
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM; Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM
• Clayton Square Shopping Centre
Address: Great Charlotte St, Liverpool L1 1QR, United Kingdom
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday 8:15 AM to 7 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
Visit the Beatles Story
In Liverpool, there is a must-visit attraction for all Beatles fans to enjoy known as the Beatles Story. This is an interactive museum that takes you to the best years of the famous band from their peak to their later years.
If you’re a serious Beatle maniac, then this is the place for you to definitely take a tour in. I’m one who loves buying their records— especially their Abbey Road album!
Explore the Liverpool Waterfront
The Liverpool waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a range of attractions, including the Royal Albert Dock, the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and the Museum of Liverpool.
To me, this is the best of many selections if you can’t select from a myriad of options when going to Liverpool. I’ve only been at the Waterfront once, and it was still one of the best experiences I’ve ever had when visiting the city!
Interesting tidbit about Liverpool:
Liverpool is famous for its music, its football teams, its maritime heritage, and its connection to The Beatles.
With its many insightful museums, inspiring architecture, and culinary delights, there’s so much to enjoy in this amazing city. Liverpool is best known for the Beatles birthplace— one that every fan, including myself, should know!
Delamere Forest Manchester
The beautiful scenery in the outskirts of Manchester from the far reaches of the Delamere Forest is one of many gorgeous sights you can lay your eyes on! During the late fall to early winter is especially the best time to visit the place!
In addition to the beautiful trails available in Delamere Forest, visitors have the opportunity to experience an array of outdoor activities with Go Ape. Whether you prefer a relaxing walk or an exhilarating adventure, Go Ape has something for everyone.
The most exciting activity they offer is the Tree Top adventure, where you get to climb up platforms and traverse rope courses between elevated stations. You can also enjoy net climbing and zip wire stations that are situated throughout the estate.
The forest is filled with fun escapades (Row 62, outdoor activities for toddlers manchester) and a dozen more opportunities to fulfil your holiday experience. Let’s go through some of the most common activities you can plan ahead when visiting here:
Cycling
I love to bike in the forest! It’s even better if it’s during the winter where it’s cooler because you don’t really need to sweat all that much which makes it a breezier exercise.
You can also use winter bikes as a means to make cycling much easier to traverse through snowy roads. I love to bike during the winter, and one of the first places I go to is near the Manchester Delamere Forest where I can relax and cycle away!
Hiking
Winter bikes cost a lot these days! If you’re on a budget to buy one, I’d highly recommend going for a hike instead. Hiking around the conservative areas of the place grants you a lot of great scenes and ambience already!
What’s even better is you can bring some friends and family with you as well. I suggest going down the well-marked trails and not get lost deep in the forest too. Doing this allows for a safer traversal through the majestic forest!
Segway Tours
If you prefer a more leisurely way to explore the forest, you can take a segway tour. The tours take you through the forest, allowing you to see the sights while enjoying the thrill of riding a segway.
The segway tour in Delamere Forest is operated by Go Ape, an adventure park located in the forest. The segway tour takes you on a guided tour through the forest, allowing you to see the sights and enjoy the thrill of riding a segway.
To join the segway tour, you need to book in advance through the Go Ape website or by calling their official customer service hotline via email or phone.
Segway Tours
Location: Go Ape Delamere, Delamere, Northwich CW8 2JD, United Kingdom
Contact number: 01603 895500
Email: [email protected]
Interesting Tidbit about Delamere Forest Century Hunting Ground
Did you know that Delamere Forest was once a hunting ground for the Norman Earls of Chester? Imagine a time when kings and nobles would come here to hunt deer and other game.
The forest has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century, and it’s fascinating to think about how it has evolved over time.
Nowadays, Delamere Forest is one of my favourite places to visit when I want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life— especially during the winter holiday.
Manchester to Chester
Chester is not far from Manchester, since it’s only 56 minutes away from each other. This city is fantastic for all kinds of reasons, but the number one being it’s an incredible city to visit during the winter.
There are a handful of fun activities (Row 97, activities for over 50s manchester over 50s groups manchester) that you can do while visiting the area. I have some recommendations when you’re in town!
Visiting the Chester Zoo
The Chester Zoo is a tremendous place to spend the weekend at Chester during winter. The zoo has over 21,000 animals and 500 different species, making it one of the largest zoos in the UK.
You can take a walk through the different habitats, including the African savannah, the tropical rainforest, and the Asian jungle. There are also interactive exhibits, a large aquarium, and a children’s play area.
Chester ZooAddress: Chester CH2 1LE, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 1244 380280
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM
Fees:
- Adults (ages 17-64): £28.50 – £32.50
- Children (ages 3-16): £24.00 – £28.00
- Infants (ages 2 and under): Free
- Seniors (ages 65+): £26.00 – £29.50
- Students (with valid ID): £26.00 – £29.50
Walk the City Walls
Out of all the cities in Great Britain, the Chester City Walls is one of the most complete city walls in the UK.
You can explore the city from a new perspective and take in the stunning views of the city’s landmarks, including the River Dee, Chester Cathedral, and the Eastgate Clock. The walk takes around an hour, and there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
City Walls
Address: Chester, UK
Contact Details: 01244 405 340
Opening Hours: Everyday
Fees: There is no admission fee to walk the walls, but there is a suggested donation of £2 per person to help with the walls’ upkeep.
Visit the Chester Racecourse
If you’re a fan of horse racing, then the Chester Racecourse is a must-visit destination.
The racecourse has a long history dating back to Roman times, and it is known for its tight turns and short straightaways, making it a challenging track for jockeys and horses.
The racecourse has many events throughout the year, including the famous May Festival, which is a three-day event featuring some of the best races of the year.
Chester Racecourse
Address: New Crane St, Chester CH1 4JD, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 (0) 1244 304 600.
Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Fees:
- County Stand: Admission prices start from £45 for adults and £27 for children (aged 17 and under).
- Tattersalls Enclosure: Admission prices start from £10 for adults and £7 for children (aged 17 and under).
- Dee Enclosure: Admission prices start from £8 for adults and £5 for children (aged 17 and under).
Interesting Tidbit: Old Row Shops!
Chester is home to the world’s first, oldest, and most complete set of surviving double-tiered shops known as the Rows. These unique shops date back to the 13th century and are a defining feature of Chester’s architecture.
The Rows consist of covered walkways with shops and businesses on two levels, with the lower level being the older of the two. Today, visitors can still explore and shop in the Rows, which are considered to be one of the city’s most unique and fascinating attractions.
Lake District Manchester
If you’re looking for an amazing time swimming, you’re not getting it here! But when the Lake District is open during the winter, the frozen icicles of the whole district are peculiarly beautiful— especially when the moonlight shines down the surface.
There may not be any swimming happening during the ber months, but at least you can see the wonderful sight beyond the Lake District! You can fancy yourself doing some few activities here and there while you’re visiting!
Visiting the Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre is a large indoor shopping centre that offers a variety of shops, restaurants (Row 120, best club restaurants Manchester), and entertainment options. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon shopping, eating, and enjoying the attractions.
Trafford Centre
Address: Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 8EH, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 (0) 161 749 1717
Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays 10 AM to 10 PM, Saturdays 10 AM to 9 PM, Sundays 12 to 6 PM
Fees:There are no admission fees to enter into Trafford Centre, as it is a shopping centre that is open to the public.
Walking around the Sale Water Park
Sale Water Park is a large park that offers scenic walks, cycling paths, and water sports such as kayaking and sailing. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.
You can even rent a kayak or paddleboard if you want— I personally kayak myself! You can explore the park’s lakes and waterways at your own pace and get a unique perspective on the surrounding nature.
Sale Water Park
Address: Rifle Rd, Sale M33 2LX, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 (0) 161 912 2000
Opening Hours: Everyday 10 AM to 5 PM
Fees:
There is no general admission fee to enter Sale Water Park, as it is a public park that is open to all visitors.
Boat Tour in the Bridgewater Canal
The Bridgewater Canal is a historic canal that runs through the Lakeside District. Taking a boat tour is a great way to learn about the history of the canal and the area.
Also, Historical significance: The Bridgewater Canal was the first canal built in Britain, and it played a vital role in the Industrial Revolution. Visiting the canal offers a chance to learn about the history of the region and how it played a role in the development of the country.
Bridgewater Canal
Address: Castlefield Junction with the Rochdale Canal, in Manchester, to its terminus in Runcorn
Contact Details: +44 (0) 161 408 2161
Opening Hours: Everyday
Fees:
- Public cruises: The prices for public cruises start from £9 per adult and £5 per child (aged 3-16). Children under 3 years old can go for free. Prices can vary depending on the duration of the cruise and any extras that are included, such as food or drinks.
- Private charters: Bridgewater Cruises also offers private charters for groups of up to 50 people. Prices start from £225 for a two-hour charter, and vary depending on the length of the charter and any additional services required.
Interesting Tidbits: Shopping by the Lake?
The Lakeside District in Manchester is home to the Trafford Centre, which is one of the largest shopping centres in the UK. The Trafford Centre has over 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, and attracts over 30 million visitors annually.
It also features unique architectural designs, including a striking dome-shaped ceiling in the central area known as The Orient. Additionally, the Trafford Centre has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including Captain America: The First Avenger and Peaky Blinders.
Hebden Bridge at Yorkshire
Another great view to go to is the Hebden Bridge at Yorkshire. This bridge is one of many that scatter around the UK, but what makes this special is its the most accessible out of any bridges near the Manchester area.
There are a few things that you can do while in Hebden Bridge. Let’s check out a few things before visiting the place:
Taking the Road to Rochdale Canal
Hebden Bridge is situated alongside the Rochdale Canal, which offers a peaceful and scenic walk. The canal is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride.
Rochdale Canal
Address: Manchester, UK
Contact Details: +44 (0) 161 835 2399
Opening Hours: Everyday 9 AM to 5 PM
Fees:
There is no general admission fee to use the Rochdale Canal, as it is a public waterway that is open to all visitors.
Hebden Bridge Market
The Hebden Bridge Market takes place every Thursday and is a bustling hub of activity. It offers a wide range of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, and is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs.
Hebden Bridge Market
Address: Hebden Bridge Market, Halifax, West Yorkshire
Contact Details: +44 (0) 1422 842832
Opening Hours: Everyday
Fees:
There is no admission fee to visit the Hebden Bridge Market, as it is a public market that is open to all visitors.
Explore independent shops and cafes
Hebden Bridge is known for its quirky independent shops and cafes. Take a stroll through the town and explore its unique offerings, from vintage clothing stores to artisanal bakeries.
For me, below are some of the best cafes and shops near the area:
• The Blitz Cafe
Address: 251b (rear, Dean Cross Rd, Plymouth PL9 7AZ, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays 8 AM to 3 PM
• The Lamppost Cafe
Address: 19 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3HT, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Everyday 9 AM to 4 PM
• Cafe Solo
Address: 5 Market St, Hebden Bridge HX7 6EU, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays 9 AM to 4 PM, Sundays 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Interesting Tidbits: Will the real martian please stand up?
Hebden Bridge was the site of one of the first recorded UFO sightings in the UK. In 1980, a local police officer reported seeing a strange object in the sky above the town, which he described as a bright, pulsating light.
The object was also reportedly seen by several other witnesses, including residents and other police officers.
The incident was investigated by the Ministry of Defence but was never fully explained. Today, the incident is still remembered in Hebden Bridge, and there is even a UFO-themed cafe in the town called The Flying Saucer Cafe.
Manchester to Castleton
If you’re looking for a charming English village that offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of things to see and do, Castleton is definitely worth a visit!
Located in the heart of the Peak District, Castleton is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty that’s just waiting to be explored.
And during the winter months, it’s like stepping into a fairytale! The hills are covered in snow, the trees are sparkling with frost, and the entire village has this magical vibe that’s hard to describe.
But don’t worry, you won’t freeze out there! There are plenty of cosy pubs and cafes in the village where you can warm up with some hot chocolate and yummy food. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy too!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing winter getaway or an invigorating adventure, Castleton has something for everyone. So why not add it to your travel bucket list? You won’t regret it!
Visit Christmas markets
Castleton hosts a popular Christmas market every year, where you can browse a variety of stalls selling gifts, decorations, and festive treats. The market is usually held in the village’s picturesque square, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Participate in Winter Sports
If you’re an outdoorsy type of person and love to play in the snow, you’ve got to check out Castleton! Trust me, there’s no better way to enjoy the winter wonderland than by getting out there and having some fun.
The hills around Castleton are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and sledging, and there are plenty of places in the area where you can rent all the equipment you need. It’s an amazing feeling to carve your way down the slopes, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Peak District.
View the stunning winter scenery
The Peak District is known for its stunning natural beauty, and winter is no exception. The snow-capped hills, frozen lakes, and frost-covered trees make for a magical winter wonderland.
Interesting Tidbits: Caves All Around you
If you’re looking for an underground adventure, you won’t want to miss the show caves in Castleton!
This charming village in the heart of the Peak District is home to several breathtaking caves that are open to visitors, including Peak Cavern, Blue John Cavern, and Speedwell Cavern.
As you descend into these underground wonderlands, you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural formations that have been millions of years in the making. From sparkling stalactites and stalagmites to towering rock formations that seem to defy gravity, these caves are truly awe-inspiring.
Buxton
Buxton is a charming town located in the Peak District of Derbyshire, England, and it is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. During the winter, it’s especially one of the most beautiful places to spend a day trip.
You have a lot to look forward to when going to Buxton. During the winter, there are a few activities that you can do to make the holiday spirits cheerier!
Visit the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery
This museum has a collection of artefacts and art that tells the story of Buxton and the surrounding area. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
| Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Address: Terrace Rd, Buxton SK17 6DA, United Kingdom Contact Details: +44 (0) 1629 533540 Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 AM to 5 PM Fees: Admission to the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery is free for all visitors. |
Dine at the local restaurants and cafes
If you’re ever in Buxton, you absolutely have to check out the food scene. Trust me, there are so many amazing restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious local cuisine.
And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you can’t leave without trying the famous Bakewell pudding— it’s seriously delicious!
But, I’ve got some personal recommendations for you that I think you’ll love. These are the places that I always make sure to hit up whenever I’m in town, so you know they’re good. Are you ready to hear them?
• The Old Hall Hotel
Address: The Square, Buxton SK17 6BD, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Check-in 2 PM, Check-out 11 AM
• The Green Pavilion Cafe
Address: 4 Terrace Rd, Buxton SK17 6DR, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Everyday 9 AM to 5 PM
• Pepperpot Cafe
Address: Royal Forester, 135 Victoria Park Rd, Buxton SK17 7PE, United Kingdom
Opening Hours: Everyday 9 AM to 4 PM
Visit the Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park
Poole’s Cavern is a limestone cave that is over 2 million years old and is situated within Buxton Country Park.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the cavern and learn about its history and geological features. The country park also offers beautiful walks with stunning views of the Peak District.
Poole’s Cavern & Buxton Country Park
Address: Green Lane, Buxton SK17 9DH, United Kingdom
Contact Details:
Opening Hours:
- Spring (1st March to 31st May): 9:30 am to 5 pm (last entry to the cavern is at 4 pm)
- Summer (1st June to 31st August): 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (last entry to the cavern is at 4:30 pm)
- Autumn (1st September to 31st October): 9:30 am to 5 pm (last entry to the cavern is at 4 pm)
- Winter (1st November to 28th February): 10 am to 4 pm (last entry to the cavern is at 3 pm)
Fees:
- Adults (16+): £10.50
- Children (5-15): £6.50
- Children under 5: free
- Concessions (seniors, students, disabled visitors): £9.50
- Family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children): £30.00
- Additional child (with a family ticket): £4.00
There’s always something to look forward to in the winter season! If there’s any place to go during this time of the year, look no further than Manchester and its adjacent areas that are worth visiting.
Now that you know how to plan your itinerary, be sure to check out more info about us and everything you need to know about this great city at Master Manchester to see the latest blogs and updates.
